Big Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Big Falls
Big Falls is one of Vermont's most impressive waterfalls, located in the town of Troy. It features a series of cascades and drops along the Missisquoi River, surrounded by lush forested scenery. The falls are known for their powerful flow, especially during spring runoff.
The Setting
Big Falls sits at 653 feet along the Missisquoi River, in the foothills of Vermont.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Chutes de Mansonville (13 ft) lies 5.4 miles to the north.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Big Falls is very short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors. It leads directly to a viewing area where you can see the falls up close. The path is well-maintained but may be slippery when wet.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Big Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Big Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit due to the high water flow from snowmelt, but summer and fall also offer beautiful views. Fall foliage adds a vibrant backdrop to the scenery.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the falls as the rocks can be slippery, and the water flow is strong. Stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the edge.
Current Water Conditions
27 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 95 years of record
1.08 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge MISSISQUOI RIVER NEAR NORTH TROY, VT (0 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
30 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
33 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
30 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
31 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
30 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
33 cfs
3/10Sat
Barely Flowing
34 cfs
5/10Best window: Wed — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late May, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near North Troy hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 95 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 652 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 67 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 68 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing west, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 652 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 95 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Big Falls is located in Big Falls State Park in Troy, Vermont. The falls can be accessed via a short walk from the parking area. The park is situated off River Road, and signage helps guide visitors to the site.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, which is free to use. Parking may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
653 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.972268° N, -72.384831° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during weekends in the summer. Wear sturdy shoes as the area near the falls can be slippery. Bring insect repellent during warmer months.
Where to Stay
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Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
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Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Jay Peak Resort, Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail, and Hazen's Notch State Park are nearby attractions worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area around Big Falls is home to various bird species, small mammals, and aquatic life. Keep an eye out for wildlife while visiting.
Cities near Big Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Big Falls
23 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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